Critical analysis of the contemporary role of traditional institutions on intra-communal conflict resolution in Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

ABSTRACT Studies have examined the shortfalls and complexities of modern mechanisms on conflict resolution. However, this study attempts to answer question as to whether the role of traditional institutions could still be found as efficient and complementary to cover up the shortfalls and complexities of modern state structure on conflict resolution. It adopts an in-depth qualitative research method. This study was conducted in Southwest Nigeria. It utilises purposive sampling technique to select formal and modern groups for the evaluation purposes. It provides an independent critique of the role of traditional institutions on intra-communal conflict resolution in modern times by drawing perspectives and inferences from formal and civil society groups. Interviews and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were used to generate qualitative data. Content analysis and ZY index were used for analytical purpose. It reveals that there is still a symbiotic relationship between the traditional institutions and formal/state institutions on intra-conflict resolution matters. Thus, the former has the capacity to close the shortfalls and complexities of the latter on intra-communal conflict resolution. This study concludes that the roles of traditional institutions are still found to be complementary of modern governance structure, with appreciable level of efficacy especially on intra-communal matters.